Disaster Preparedness and Safety Tips

 Disaster Preparedness and Safety Tips 

Disasters caused by plate tectonics, like earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, can be dangerous and cause serious damage to people, homes, and the communities. That's why it is important to know how to prepare once an earthquake or a volcanic eruption occurs. Preparedness can help reduce the risk of injury and keep us safe when disaster strikes. Being ready includes knowing the dangers, having a safety plan, and practicing what to do before, during, and after such events.

First make an emergency plan where we create plans with our family and friends what each person will do if an earthquake or a volcanic eruption occurs. Second, gather essential items like water, food that doesn't perish immediately, a flashlight, batteries, a first aid kit and any necessary medications and make sure that it is an easy-to-access spot in your home. In your home, look for any spot that is safe to go once an earthquake happens. Safe spots means sturdy tables or in doorways and avoid places where things might fall on you like heavy shelves. Third, always check the local news or alerts for any information about earthquakes or volcanic activity. Many areas prone to these disasters have warning systems that can give you a little extra time for preparations. In areas with active volcanoes, follow local advice on evacuation routes and be ready to leave if authorities say it’s necessary. Volcanic eruptions can cause ash fall and dangerous gases, so knowing when to leave is important for your safety. When the shaking stops, look around to make sure it is safe to move. Then exit the building. Lastly, practice the “Drop, Cover and Hold” protocol. 

Drop where we get down on our hands and knees to protect ourselves from being knocked over. That also puts you in an ideal position to crawl for shelter. Cover is placing an arm and hand over your head and neck to shield them from debris. Head for any nearby tables to shelter under until the shaking stops. If a table isn’t in sight, sidle up to one of your home’s interior walls away from tall objects and furniture that might fall on you. A common misconception in seeking cover is that doorways offer the best protection during an earthquake. But according to the Earthquake Country Alliance, this is only true if you are in an “old, unreinforced adobe house.” In modern homes, the rest of the house is just as strong. Hold means stay put until the shaking stops. If you’re under a shelter like a table, keep hold of it with one hand. If you’re out in the open, continue to shield your head and neck with your arms. Lastly if you are using a wheelchair or walker, or cannot drop to the ground, there are other versions of the above protocol to follow that will help keep you safe. For example, if you are in a wheelchair, lock the wheels and then lean over to protect your vital organs, covering your head and neck with your arms. 

Sources:

• What to do during an earthquake: Simple steps to stay protected.nationalgeographic.com 

• Earthquake Preparedness Tips. marshallsterling.com